YOUNG people in Somerset will have the opportunity to embrace walking and gain a free Ramblers' award this summer.

Following five years of success in Scotland, the Ramblers’ Out There Award is coming to the South West, with events in Taunton, Bridgwater, and Bristol, to encourage 18 to 26-year-olds to "explore their world with confidence".

The Out There Award from the walking charity aims to "inspire young people to embrace and explore the world around them by building confidence and basic knowledge".

The award, supported by Sport England, allows those aged 18 to 26 to become familiar with the simple skills and many benefits of walking with the opportunity to develop social experience too.

A free two-day course offered to up to 70 participants of any ability aims to eliminate barriers to walking such as budget or experience by welcoming "young people from all backgrounds".

Seven events will be taking place in Taunton, Bridgwater, and Bristol between June and September, "maximising accessibility and inclusivity".

The Walking Experience Officer from the Ramblers, Kate Davis, said: “We’re excited to be able to offer the Out There Award in the South West for the first time, enabling young people to gain new outdoor skills and building on the success we’ve seen in Scotland.

"The sessions run over two days, yet completing the award has a lasting positive impact, increasing participants’ confidence, social connections, and employability.”

A participant who completed the award in Glasgow also said: “It is invaluable to have an award that educates young people and provides you with the necessities to get started.”

The award is run by experienced staff who lead in-person training sessions.

Completing the Out There Award earns participants not only skills that last a lifetime but also a free starter kit of outdoor essentials and a year of free Ramblers membership, worth £41, to encourage the continuation of walking.

Ramblers found a 36% increase in participants who "feel confident at walking" after completing the award.

For more information on events visit: ramblers.org.uk/go-walking-hub/out-there-award.